The past decade has seen significant developments in civil liberties, human rights and equality reforms in Malta. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Human Rights Directorate (HRD), which has played a central role in shaping policy and practice across government.Operating under the political responsibility of the Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Hon. Rebecca Buttigieg, within the Office of the Prime Minister, the HRD has spent the last ten years strengthening the way equality and human rights are addressed within public administration.Established in 2015 with a small team of four, the Directorate set out with a clear objective: to bridge the gap between legislation and people’s lived experiences. Since then, it has grown into a structured institution with specialised units focusing on Gender Mainstreaming, LGBTIQ+ Equality, Integration and Anti-Racism, and Anti-Human Trafficking. Its work is supported by a research and coordination team, a legal unit and an administration team. Today, the Directorate is made up of around 25 professionals, with further growth planned.So how has the HRD contributed to change over the years?Breaking silosOne of the Directorate’s key achievements has been promoting a more integrated approach to human rights across government. By encouraging departments to consider equality at every stage of policy development, the HRD has worked to ensure that these principles are embedded across sectors. The establishment of Inter-Ministerial Committees has helped place human rights considerations at the centre of discussions, from urban planning and healthcare to digital services.Empowering frontline staffBeyond legislation, the HRD has focused on how public services are delivered in practice. Over the past decade, it has coordinated extensive training programmes for thousands of public officers. These initiatives have aimed to equip frontline staff, including law enforcement and healthcare professionals, with the tools needed to provide fair and inclusive services.Encouraging dialogueThrough public awareness campaigns and community engagement, the Directorate has also sought to foster open discussion around equality and diversity, helping to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding across Maltese society.Looking aheadAs it enters its second decade, the HRD’s objective remains focused on making equality a standard part of government practice. The aim is to continue building a public service where inclusion is embedded in everyday operations.This year, several committees were consolidated into a single streamlined body to oversee mainstreaming efforts, reinforcing Malta’s long-term commitment to human rights and equality.As the Human Rights Directorate marks ten years since its establishment, the milestone reflects an ongoing process aimed at strengthening inclusive governance for the years ahead.Happy 10th Anniversary to the HRD – here’s to the next decade of progress!Share this with someone who should celebrate this commitment•